Abstract
The discovery of small noncoding regulatory RNAs (sRNAs) in bacteria has grown tremendously recently, giving new insights into gene regulation. The implementation of computational analysis and RNA sequencing has provided new tools to discover and analyze potential sRNAs. Small regulatory RNAs that act by base-pairing to target mRNAs have been found to be ubiquitous and are the most abundant class of post-transcriptional regulators in bacteria. The majority of sRNA studies has been limited to E. coli and other gram-negative bacteria. However, examples of sRNAs in gram-positive bacteria are still plentiful although the detailed gene regulation mechanisms behind them are not as well understood. Strict virulence control is critical for a pathogen’s survival and many sRNAs have been found to be involved in that process. This review outlines the targets and currently known mechanisms of trans-acting sRNAs involved in virulence regulation in various gram-positive pathogens. In addition, their shared characteristics such as CU interaction motifs, the role of Hfq, and involvement in two-component regulators, riboswitches, quorum sensing, or toxin/antitoxin systems are described.
Highlights
In order for pathogens to successfully infect and colonize a host, strict control of virulence is critical
Two-component systems are widely used throughout bacteria in both gram-positive and gram-negative species
Many small RNAs (sRNAs) in gram-positive bacteria are regulated by two-component systems, as discussed previously
Summary
In order for pathogens to successfully infect and colonize a host, strict control of virulence is critical. A group of noncoding RNAs called small RNAs (sRNAs) has been recognized as an essential factor of virulence control in many pathogens. These bacterial sRNAs have become the most abundant class of post-transcriptional regulators [1]. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the known and speculated regulatory mechanisms by trans-acting sRNAs controlling virulence in gram-positive pathogens (Table 1). Those sRNAs in each pathogen are described first, and their mechanisms of gene regulation and shared characteristics are delineated.
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